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Frame-by-frame analysis of the crash shows the front right wheel on Alonso's car was headed for the cockpit where Leclerc sat.

But the halo system took the impact of the tyre and rebounded the car away from Leclerc's head, damaging Alonso's suspension instead.

Once the dust settled, all three drivers involved were able to walk away from the crash unscathed.

Leclerc later tweeted: "End of the race in the 1st corner. Frustrating. Never been a fan of the halo but I have to say that I was very happy to have it over my head today!"

Former F1 world champion Nico Rosberg was also quick to praise the controversial safety system as he tweeted: "We can end the halo discussion now. It will save lives!"

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F1 halo: Leclerc walked away unscathed (Image: Getty Images)

Critics suggested the design of the halo would impact on visibility and style, but its impact in the Leclerc crash could sway doubters.

FIA director Charlie Whiting said: "What is clear is the significant tyre marks on both the tyre and the halo.

"We take a lot of photographs, and our researchers will be contacting Sauber on Monday morning to make sure we understand, for example, when they take the halo off, to see if the fixings and the bolts that fix it are in good shape, and more importantly to see if it's been distorted.

"It's being held in by the bolts at present, but see if it springs into a different shape.

"Let's hope we can try and learn whatever we can from that. It looks like it's had a fairly hefty whack though."

F1 halo: Pictures showed how close Leclerc was to a possible injury (Image: Formula1)